Reigning World Champions Tyler Wade and Wesley Thorp are making the most of the dog days of summer in August 2024, starting off the month with an impressive week at the ProRodeos. The duo managed to earn $16,077 each at various rodeos, showcasing their exceptional skills and teamwork.
Their winning streak began at the Dodge City Roundup in Kansas, where they secured the first round victory with a time of 4.9 seconds, earning $3,547 each. They continued their success at the Mountain Valley Stampede in Heber City, Utah, where they clocked in at 3.8 seconds to win $5,418 per man. In Dalhart, Texas, at the XIT Rodeo, they claimed fourth place and pocketed $1,691 each. Their winning ways culminated at the Castle Rock, Colorado Douglas County Fair and Rodeo, where they blazed through with a time of 3.7 seconds, earning $5,421 each.
One of the key factors contributing to their success is the top-notch string of horses they have at their disposal. Wade relies on his exceptional horses, including Espuela Bro, RS Rare Timber, and Apache R Biscuit, while Thorp utilizes the talents of Kadabra King and SJR Play The Diamond, both borrowed from Patrick Smith and Kenny Reeves, respectively.
Thorp highlighted the importance of having reliable horses, especially when facing challenges during competitions. Wade echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the need to stay level-headed and focused on their performance, regardless of the outcome of individual runs.
Wade’s strategic approach to managing his horses, ensuring they are not overworked or limited to specific setups, has been instrumental in their consistent performance. Thorp, on the other hand, has faced setbacks with his own horses but has found support from Smith and Reeves, who generously offered their horses for him to ride.
Smith’s trust in Thorp to handle his prized horses reflects the camaraderie and mutual respect shared among rodeo competitors. Thorp’s experience and skill as a rider have been crucial in maximizing the potential of the borrowed horses, leading to their continued success in recent rodeos.
Thorp’s anticipation of having his horse, Mabel, back in time for the upcoming Northwest run demonstrates his commitment to maintaining a strong lineup of horses. In the meantime, riding the Horse of the Year, Turbo, has proven to be a valuable opportunity for Thorp to showcase his abilities and adaptability as a rider.
Overall, Wade and Thorp’s partnership, combined with their exceptional horsemanship and determination, has propelled them to the top of the rodeo circuit. Their recent victories serve as a testament to their skill, dedication, and the invaluable support they receive from their trusted horses and fellow competitors.
